There is an old saying about finding a trouble-free used car is like finding a needle in a bunch of hay. The saying might be true if you are buying a secondhand car from a stranger you have met online. But, you would not have such problems when buying a used or repossessed from a murrieta used car dealer. Finding a car for yourself is just the beginning of owning a vehicle, and there are many things to check when getting a used car.
Since not all car buyers know many things about cars, especially new drivers, there is a guide that can help with their buying process. Used cars will give you a lot of assignments when purchasing, but it outlines the smart ideas on picking a worthy secondhand one.
Used car inspection checklist
Body condition
Repossessed vehicles are offered on an “as-is basis”, which is a minor issue when choosing a secondhand car. However, buying a used car is expected when leaving the showroom floor. You cannot expect the used car as perfect when leaving the showroom floor. So, it is natural to find possible issues:
- scratches
- nicks
- dents
- small bumps on the doors
- bumpers
- fenders
You must go after minor body imperfections. Whenever possible, you must go beyond minor body imperfections. When possible, it is best to inspect the car under direct sunlight. Before making an assessment, you can park the car on the level ground. There are other things to check on the exterior, such as:
Roof and look
You can check for look and roof for deep dents and rust, including:
- scratches
- fading paint
Check the body and look for unsightly gaps or misaligned panels. You can open and close each door to check loose hinges. Checking these parts ensures that the door of the used car is secured. You may check for the rubber seals and look for some signs of rot or wear.
Inspect the windows and windshield for the following:
- stone chips
- cracks
- scratches
Check the paint’s look and condition for signs of the following:
- oxidation
- faded areas
- rough patches
- discoloration
Try opening and closing the hood and trunk, and check for the hinge or misalignment issues. Checking all the look and exterior lights for cracks on the housing can help. Ensure that all the lights are not defective, including:
- brake lights
- position lamps
- hazard lights
- headlights
- interior lights
You can start checking the tires and wheels to ensure all are the same brand and are the same too. If the car wears different branded tires, it is a sign of a neglected vehicle and an undeclared accident repair.
Under the hood
Pop open the hood when the engine is off and check the engine bay. Flashlight the engine to see darker areas under the hood. Check for possible oil leaks and some other fluid leaks. Thick patches of the dark sludge can be a sign of worn-out gaskets.
Checking under the hood by starting the engine and listening to the produced noise to know if it has issues, such as:
- grinding noises
- screeching belts
- problematic idling
Underneath the car
You can check the undercarriage without hoisting or lifting the car. There are basic checks to do without getting dirty. Checking the vehicle stance is very essential and the car must level on all four wheels. Once one or two sides slacked, it points to:
- worn-out or leaking shock absorbers
- worn-out springs
Checking the alignment of the car gives you the idea that it is still in good condition. Professional mechanics are using lasers to check the wheel alignment. But, if you have noticed the wheels are pointing outwards or inwards excessively, you might be dealing with steering or suspension issues.
Purchasing used cars in murrieta gives you no headache as you can merely pick the car you like and test drive. You can be sure that these used cars get proper maintenance before being offered for sale.
Conclusion
Checking the condition of the used car before buying gives you an idea of whether it is the right price for a secondhand vehicle to purchase.
